On the gravitational quantum states of helium atoms in the gravitational field of a cold neutron star

TL;DR

This paper explores the theoretical existence of quantum gravitational states of helium atoms in the intense gravitational field of a cold neutron star, proposing a method to observe these states via magnetic field-induced transitions.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of helium quantum states in neutron star gravity and suggests a novel observational approach using magnetic field-induced spectral lines.

Findings

Helium atoms can theoretically occupy quantum gravitational states near neutron stars.

Transitions between these states can produce detectable spectral lines in the gigahertz range.

Magnetic fields can induce observable transitions, enabling potential experimental verification.

Abstract

A study of gravitational properties of matter presents a fundamental interest. The possibility of investigation of quantum gravitational states of matter by the example of helium atom is shown. The capability of the existence of helium quantum states in the gravitational field of a cold neutron star is examined. Observation of such states is done with the help of rotating neutron star's magnetic field. Periodically changing magnetic field induces transitions between gravitational states of helium atom and leads to the appearance of gravitational transitions' spectral lines in gigahertz frequency range.